Root Canal Therapy

A root canal is performed on a tooth that has irreversible pulpal inflammation due to decay, infection, or trauma. Root canal treatment typically takes two visits to complete. Local anesthetic is first administered to the area to make you comfortable. The nerve (pulp) of the tooth is accessed through a small opening in the biting surface of the tooth. It is then removed and a special antimicrobial and sedative medication is placed in the canal. At your second visit, the nerve canal is thoroughly cleaned and replaced with a specialized filling material called gutta percha. The access is closed with filling material. Depending on the location and prior loss of tooth structure, a crown may be recommended after root canal therapy.